6 Immunity-Boosting Herbs for Fall

As summer comes to a close, and the cool weather right around the corner, the dreaded cold and flu season is coming our way. To keep your immune system strong, obtaining the right nutrients and ingredients will keep sickness at bay – and believe it or not, some of the best power-packed ingredients can be found right in your kitchen!

Echinacea- Echinacea is a popular herb that has been identified to boost immunity. Combined with goldenseal, another herb, or enjoyed alone as tea, this member of the daisy family has been found to prevent and treat upper respiratory tract infections as well as the common cold.

Ginseng – This herb has many varieties ideal for boosting immunity and overall health. Its main active component, ginsenosides, has been proven to have anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties. Clinical research studies have demonstrated that it may improve immune and psychological functions as well as conditions related to diabetes.

Garlic – This spice has had a long history of medicinal value. Studies have shown that garlic promotes overall immune health, that it is active against specific bacterial infections of the respiratory tract, and that it may bolster the ability of the respiratory tract to defend against viral infection. What’s better? It’s also a great tasting spice to use while you cook!

Ginger – This herb has been shown to reduce inflammation, cardiovascular conditions, blood clots and cholesterol. Also a great ingredient to help aid digestion, we include ginger into many of our Rainbow Light products, such as the Women’s One and prenatal line of products, to help those with a frequent upset stomach.

Turmeric- This spice contains curcumin, which has notable antioxidant properties. It also has antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and stomach soothing benefits. It reduces inflammation by stimulating the adrenal glands to increase the hormone that lessens inflammation. It is also used against headaches, bronchitis, colds, fever and menstrual problems.

Spirulina – worth a discussion, as this natural ingredient is often misrepresented as an herb. Although technically a marine organism, this ingredient is a powerhouse of immunity. Amino acids make up 62 percent of spirulina, making it a complete protein. It’s one of the few known plant sources of vitamin B12 and it’s full of amino acids, enzymes, and probiotics that help to enhance your immune system and digestive health. It’s a key ingredient in our Rainbow Light products – that’s how much we love it!

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I always like to reach for the natural remedies first. I eat raw garlic if I don’t feel good. A friend told me that turmeric helps boost mood too, I was thinking of buying some capsules at whole foods.

I loved this refresher on what different herbs can do, especially for this time of the year when your immune system needs a boost! I had heard of the most of these except for spirulina-so that was an added bonus to be able to learn about something “new to me” I really do need to get me some of these because it seems the last few years I get all sorts of nasty colds- if my hubs gets sick I KNOW i will .